What are the risk factors of pancreatitis?
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You are at increased risk for pancreatitis if you have a family history of pancreatitis, as it can be hereditary. If close relatives have had pancreatitis due to genetic illnesses or abnormalities of the pancreas you may be more likely to have pancreatitis.
Drinking large quantities of alcohol on a daily basis over a period of time may also increase your risk of pancreatitis. Alcohol slowly clogs small ducts leading out of the pancreas, causing a build-up of digestive enzymes that attack the pancreatic tissue. Although it is not clear why, if you are male you have a higher risk of having both acute and chronic pancreatitis.
You are at increased risk for pancreatitis if you have a family history of pancreatitis, as it can be hereditary. If close relatives have had pancreatitis due to genetic illnesses or abnormalities of the pancreas you may be more likely to have... More -
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital answered:Gallstones are a major risk factor for acute pancreatitis; and alcoholism is a major cause of chronic pancreatitis, especially for men. Other causes include a blocked or narrowed pancreatic duct due to injury, or pseudocysts. Genetic factors (heredity), congenital conditions, cystic fibrosis, high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), high levels of blood cholesterol and triglycerides, certain drugs, and some autoimmune conditions also increase the risk.
Gallstones are a major risk factor for acute pancreatitis; and alcoholism is a major cause of chronic pancreatitis, especially for men. Other causes include a blocked or narrowed pancreatic duct due to injury, or pseudocysts. Genetic factors... More -
Healthwise answered:Several factors can increase your risk of pancreatitis, including:
- Gallstones. A small gallstone can move far enough into the bile duct to block the flow of pancreatic enzymes into the small intestine.
- Alcohol abuse. The amount needed to cause pancreatitis is not known. Alcohol tolerance varies from one person to another. Moderate consumption is considered no more than 2 alcoholic beverages a day for men and 1 a day for women and older people.
- A high level of fat (triglycerides) in the blood.
- Taking certain medicines, including estrogen therapy and some antibiotics.
- Structural problems of the pancreas or the bile and pancreatic ducts, especially a condition in which the pancreas is divided and has two main ducts (pancreas divisum).
Several factors can increase your risk of pancreatitis, including: Gallstones. A small gallstone can move far enough into the bile duct to block the flow of pancreatic enzymes into the small intestine. Alcohol abuse. The amount needed to cause... More
